Position Title: Director of Finance
Department: Finance
Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Location: Dallas Fort Worth, or Pickering, Ontario or Edmundston New Brunswick
Job Type: Full-time

Position Overview:

We are seeking a forward-thinking and experienced Director of Finance to lead and oversee the critical functions within our Finance department. This role encompasses financial reporting, budgeting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, tax operations, and lease accounting and administration. A key focus will be on leveraging technology and AI-driven tools to optimize processes, improve accuracy, and enhance financial insights – while maintaining strong internal controls and regulatory compliance.

This leadership role reports directly to the CFO, has five direct reports, who manage a team of approximately 30, and plays a key part in strategic planning and operational excellence. The Finance Director will also work closely with the Vice President of Financial and Business analysis to streamline financial reporting processes and enhance the use of AI and analytics across functions. Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Controls

• Oversee the preparation of accurate, timely financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) and all reporting to Jim Pattison Group Corporate team.
• Maintain and improve internal control processes to safeguard assets and mitigate risk.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and internal financial policies.
• Provide detailed monthly consolidated financial reporting and commentary to the CFO and President.

Payroll, AR/AP, and Tax Operations

• Oversees Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, and Tax functions.
• Collaborates with the Director of Financial reporting to improve the commission processing and reporting system, incorporating AI and automation tools where possible
• Ensure accurate tax reporting and compliance, including U.S. Sales & Use Tax, U.S. Personal Property Tax, and Canadian Tax obligations.
• Liaise with external tax advisors and auditors (e.g., Ernst & Young & KPMG) on audit, and commodity tax matters.
• Support the preparation of corporate tax returns and manage transfer pricing documentation.

Audit Management

• Lead coordination of year-end audit activities, and timely responses to auditor requests.
• Ensure audit readiness and delivery of accurate, timely financial data

Budgeting & Financial Analysis

• Drive the budgeting and forecasting process, aligning with business strategy and operational goals.
• Leverage predictive analytics and AI-enabled budgeting and forecasting tools to improve planning accuracy and insight
• Conduct cost optimization analysis to identify savings opportunities and improve efficiency
• Provide variance analysis and actionable financial insights to senior leadership

Lease Accounting

• Oversee lease accounting activities in compliance with relevant accounting standards
• Identify opportunities to enhance efficiencies in lease administration

Cash Management & Treasury Support

• Monitor and oversee cash flow forecasting and working capital optimization.
• Support banking relationships, cash management strategies, and capital structure reviews.

Technology, AI & Process Optimization

• Champion the use of automation and AI-powered solutions to streamline finance processes, reduce manual tasks, and enhance decision-making capabilities
• Work in partnership with the Vice President of Financial and Business analysis to improve efficiency, ensure data accuracy and maximize the strategic use of financial and operational data
• Continuously evaluate and upgrade financial systems, analytics platforms, and reporting tools to support agility and scalability.

Team Leadership, Coaching & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and support five direct reports ensuring alignment with departmental goals and performance standards.
• Build and maintain a high-performing finance operations team across all key functions.
• Establish clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as a strategic advisor to senior management by providing clear, data-driven financial insights
• Communicate financial performance, risks, and opportunities clearly to stakeholders at all levels

Qualifications:

• CPA designation is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; MBA is an asset.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including leadership of cross-functional teams
• Strong experience in manufacturing or similarly operationally complex environment is preferred.
• Proficient with ERP systems and familiarity with AI-enabled financial tools and platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coach finance leaders and drive process innovation through people and technology.
• Experience in predictive analytics, cost optimization and strategic financial planning
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.